BROADBAND · CHOOSING THE RIGHT BROADBAND PACKAGE
Choosing the Right Broadband Package
Comparing broadband types, speeds, contract terms and value to find the right package for your household.
Quick summary
- ADSL, FTTC, FTTP options
- Speed tiers from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps
- Contract lengths vary
- Check minimum guaranteed speeds
- Compare total cost including rises
For information only
Choosing broadband involves balancing speed, reliability, contract length, and price. This guide explains fibre types, speed tiers, contract risks, and switching considerations.
Understanding Broadband Types
Broadband is delivered via several technologies:
ADSL:
- Copper-only
- Slower speeds (typically under 20 Mbps)
FTTC:
- Fibre to cabinet + copper to home
- 30–80 Mbps typical
FTTP (Full Fibre):
- Fibre directly to property
- 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps+
Cable:
- Separate network (e.g. Virgin Media)
- High speeds but shared bandwidth model
4G/5G Home Broadband:
- Uses mobile network
- No fixed line required
Your available options depend on location.
Assessing Your Speed Needs
Speed requirements depend on household usage.
Single user:
- Browsing, HD streaming
- 30 Mbps often sufficient
Family household:
- Multiple 4K streams
- Gaming
- Video calls
- 100–300 Mbps recommended
Heavy users:
- Large downloads
- Cloud backups
- Home office
- 300+ Mbps beneficial
Consider:
- Number of devices
- Simultaneous usage
- Upload needs (important for video calls)
Contract Terms & Pricing
Broadband contracts typically last:
- 12 months
- 18 months
- 24 months
Check for:
- Early exit fees
- Mid-contract CPI-linked price rises
- Router return requirements
- Installation fees
Some contracts include inflation-linked price rises annually.
Price vs Real Value
Low headline price does not equal best value.
Consider:
- Router quality
- Customer service reputation
- Speed guarantee
- Compensation scheme participation
- Equipment included
Sometimes paying slightly more provides better stability and support.
Switching Made Easy
Ofcom’s One Touch Switch system allows:
- Switching without contacting your old provider
- Reduced risk of double billing
- Faster transitions
You can switch penalty-free at end of contract.
Key takeaways
- Match speed to usage
- Compare total contract cost
- Check price rise clauses
- Consider reliability not just price
- Switching is easier than before
How much speed do I need?
Depends on number of users and streaming needs.
Can I leave early?
Usually subject to exit fees unless provider breaches guarantee.
Is faster broadband always better?
Only if you use it. Overpaying for unused speed adds no benefit.
Can I leave if price increases mid-contract?
Not usually, if price rise clause was included in contract terms.
How do I check availability?
Use your postcode on provider websites.
Switch broadband
Same rates as the comparison sites. At least 50% of commission goes to your chosen cause.